new squier VM jazz or used MIM jazz?

[Alex Huddleston]

Which should I get? I've been wanting a jazz bass and have about 300-400 to spend. I currently play in a thrash metal band and may soon be playing in a classic sounding rock band. I like the squier, but I am a little concerned I'm going to get crap for the name on the headstock. I've heard a few things about the quality of the squier but ive played these a few times at the local GC and they seem fine enough. I haven't tried a MIM jazz yet, but from what Ive heard they seem to be pretty good. I'm basically set on a jazz bass so Im not looking for other suggestions for other basses. Just these two unless theres a better J bass around this price.

 

[J. Crawford]

New Squier.

 

[praisebass]

Used MIM

 

[DanTheMan2112]

New Squier-looks cooler. If it's a big deal about the logo, just sand it off. You could also tell them to kiss your a$$.

 

[DBass2000]

Squier. Those VM basses are the bomb. They sound and feel better than the crappy fenders. Don't pay for the name. Pay for the quality.

 

[danomite64]

Used MIM

+1

 

[BenGrim]

If you're playing Thrash Metal, the "Duncan" pickups and the clarity that comes with them may be better for you.

 

[CityEscape]

Definitely Squier. The VM basses are IMO as good quality if not better than the MIM. Plus you'll save yourself a couple hundred bucks. Check Craigslist, I got a (barely) used VM
w/ a case for $180.

 

[blendermassacre]

squire. Seriously, who cares about the name. Since when is Mexico the mecca of making stuff?

 

[CityEscape]

And who cares what others say about the name on the headstock? If you can play bass well, no one can say anything to you.

 

[The Birdman]

It depends on the particular used MIM Jazz, but I would generally go for the used MIM Jazz, and I have a Squier VM fretted Jazz. The MIM will generally have better hardware and a better quality wood body. But play both, and YOU decide which you prefer.

Roger

 

[DanRJBrasil]

Used MIM

+2

 

[jmercer91]

It depends on the particular used MIM Jazz, but I would generally go for the used MIM Jazz, and I have a Squier VM fretted Jazz. The MIM will generally have better hardware and a better quality wood body. But play both, and YOU decide which you prefer.

Roger

+1000000000000000

 

[Kevmove]

I own both. I don't think you should settle for either. Enough companies make Jazz style basses now that you could try a whole bunch of basses and maybe find a bass beyond your expectations. I know I did, once I decided to look at the other basses that were on sale.

I'm telling you this and I LOVE FENDERS and SQUIERS.

 

[A-Step-Towards]

used squier then add some upgrades

 

[ThaLowEndTheory]

Play them both. There are good and bad basses in both. I like the squier pickups better than the fenders. The hardware is a wash as well as the necks IMHO. Both do the job just fine. Body woods will be soft maple for the Squier, and Alder or maybe Poplar for the used MIM. The best advice is to play it before you buy it. Find one that feels good and sounds good to you. Ignore the name on the headstock. Also consider the Squier Deluxe.

 

[brandtb]

Don't be afraid to look for a used Squier.

As others have stated, play as many as you can. Find the one that "sings in your hands". Either instrument can be a good fit, but I'll concur that the VM pups have a real nice midrange that might suit your genre and style.

Let us know what you end up getting. Good luck!

 

[Stranger Danger]

I bought a VM Squier. I like it but I wish I would have bought a used MIM Fender. If that tells you anything.

 

[shirojiro]

Just went through the same questions, so I went to GC and tried out the Squier VM Jazz and a few MIM Jazz basses.

The hardware on the MIM basses was a little nicer, and the fretwork seemed a bit better in the MIM basses as well. Also, the wood of the neck was tinted darker than the satin finish of the VM Jazz.

The tones from the basses were very similar though. I was more than pleasantly surprised with the sound from the Squier.

I ended up getting the Squier, mainly because I like the black "binding and blocks." The neck reminds me of my first bass, a Kent Jazz bass clone that I really thrashed back in 1981...

 

[bass_snake]

Squire! I've never been a fan of Mexicans and have never liked one bass that is an MIM.

Fred